This introductory chapter sets out the scope and the core themes of the book. The three victimological perspectives: positive victimology, radical victimology and critical victimology, are defined and the strengths and weaknesses of each approach are briefly discussed. Methods of research for crime victims' issues are discussed, including victimisation surveys, qualitative descriptions and national trend surveys, such as the British Crime Survey. Further chapters in the book examine victimisation and concern about crime. Risk of personal victimisation is discussed in terms of geographical location, and other variables relating to the victim, such as age, sex, race and patterns of activity. There is a further consideration that vulnerability to crime is exacerbated by social, economic and political exclusions. The development of public policy and practice in victims' issues is also discussed. A recurring finding is that there is a lack of coherent victims' policy. and victims continue to occupy a position defined by their need rather than by a notion of rights.